The period of 1603-1660 was a turbulent time for Ireland as the country underwent a struggle for mastery between English forces and native Irish rebels. While England had been attempting to gain control over Ireland since the 12th century, it was not until this period that they were able to gain more significant success in doing so (Canny, 2001). This process involved both military force as well as legal measures which allowed them to slowly strengthen their grip on the country while simultaneously undermining any potential challenge they faced from local rulers or groups.

On one side of this struggle was the English Crown which sought to assert its authority over all aspects of life in Ireland. To do this, they implemented laws such as those found in Poyning’s Law which restricted the power of Irish parliament while also strengthening royal control over domestic matters (Habakkuk & Carroll, 1981). They also used military force against rebellions by providing support for loyalists and suppressing uprisings when necessary.

On the other side was a motley crew of rebel groups composed mainly of Catholic landowners who opposed these attempts at domination by England (Mason & Norling, 1972). Despite facing overwhelming odds against them with regards to resources and manpower, these rebels still managed to put up an admirable fight during various skirmishes throughout this era.

In conclusion, although England was ultimately successful in establishing its kingdom in Ireland during this period due mainly to their superior resources and strategy, it can be said that their victory would have never been possible without facing resistance from those who fought back against foreign invasion thus presenting us with an interesting dynamic between kingdom versus colony that unfolded during 1603-1660.